As they were still in that mode, Maddie's phone buzzed with an urgent message from Old Lady Jackson, summoning all family members to a meeting at the family manor that night. Maddie's curiosity was piqued as she showed the message to Tyler.
"We need to go,grandma just called us all for an important meeting at the family manor" she said, already heading for the door.
Tyler nodded, also following her but Maddie stopped him.
"It's too late to take the electric bike. Let's take a taxi."
As they rode to the manor, Maddie scrolled through her phone, watching a trending video online. Tyler glanced over, noticing it was the footage from P-Gems earlier that day. He smiled, relieved that only the back of his body was visible.
Maddie looked up, intrigued. "Have you seen this? Everyone's speculating about the mysterious billionaire who bought the pink diamond necklace."
Tyler shrugged, playing it cool. "No idea who it could be."
Maddie laughed. "Some think it's the new mysterious CEO of Ace co-operation, while others believe it's a rich tycoon from overseas."
Tyler smiled, enjoying the anonymity. "Maybe it's just a generous person who wants to stay hidden."
The taxi pulled up to the manor, and they stepped out, joining the other family members gathered outside. Old Lady Jackson greeted them, her expression serious.
"Let's go inside. We have important matters to discuss."
As they entered the manor, Tyler wondered what the meeting could be about. Was it related to the Ace Cooperation deal? He exchanged a curious glance with Maddie, who shrugged, equally puzzled as well.
Well the truth was that they were not far from the truth.
As they arrived at the meeting room, Old Lady Jackson greeted them with a serious expression.
"Thank you all for coming. I'm sure you're aware of the recent developments with Ace Cooperation."
She took a deep breath before continuing. "They've made a proposal to partner with all the decorations company in town and this includes us, this includes offering a substantial investment in our company. It's a significant opportunity, but I want to hear your thoughts before making any decisions."
Harry and Kate, Maddie's cousins, exchanged a skeptical glance. "What's the catch?" Harry asked, his tone dubious.
Old Lady Jackson smiled wryly. "That's what we need to discuss.Maddie, I'd like to hear your thoughts first."
Maddie leaned forward, interested. "I think it's worth considering, Grandmother. We could use the investment to expand our operations."
Tyler nodded in agreement. "Yes, ma'am Maddie is right as this could open up new markets for us."
But Harry and Kate were unconvinced. "I don't know...it sounds too good to be true," Harry said, his voice laced with skepticism.
Kate nodded in agreement. "Yeah, how can they just offer us millions after buying a billion dollars worth company? It's fishy."
Tyler's eyes rolled inwardly, scolding them as fools in his mind. Didn't they understand the business world? To them it's fishy but this was a deal that could change the status of the Jackson's family for eternity.
"Grandma Maddie is right we need to grab this opportunity before it's too late" Tyler added still trying to convince old lady Jackson.
Harry sneered at Tyler. "And what do you know about buisness ehnn Tyler? You're just a live-in son-in-law with no business experience. You're probably the one misleading Maddie into thinking this deal is legitimate."
Maddie's eyes flashed with anger, but before she could defend Tyler, he gave her a subtle nod, indicating he'd handle it.
Tyler smiled lazily at Harry. "Oh, I see. So, you're afraid of taking on the project because you're afraid of leading the Jackson group to bankruptcy? That's kind of cool and normal, coming from you, Harry."
The room fell silent, with all eyes on Harry, who looked like he'd been punched in the gut. Tyler's words hung in the air, dripping with sarcasm.
Maddie's cousins, Elizabeth and James, tried to stifle their giggles, but it was too late. The room erupted into a mixture of gasps and snickers, with Harry's face turning bright red.
Old Lady Jackson banged her hand on the table, trying to restore order. "Enough! This is a business meeting, not a playground."
But the damage was done. Harry looked like a fool, and Tyler had asserted his dominance in the room. Maddie smiled proudly at her husband, who gave her a subtle wink.
Noah Jackson, Harry and Kate's father, glared at Tyler.
"How dare you, Tyler! You'll do well to remember your place in this family. You're just a son-in-law, not a decision-maker."
Old Lady Jackson slammed her hand on the table again. "Enough! for goodness sake this bickering is getting us nowhere. We're here to discuss business, not personal grievances."
Maddie stood up, her voice clear and confident. "I think we've discussed enough. I'd like to announce that I intend to lead this project with Ace Cooperation. I believe it has great potential for our company, and I'm willing to take on the responsibility."
The room fell silent, with all eyes on Maddie. Tyler smiled proudly at his wife, while Harry and Kate looked on in dismay.
Noah Jackson scowled. "Maddie, are you sure that's wise? You're not exactly experienced in these matters."
Maddie met her uncle's gaze calmly. "I've been learning, Uncle Noah. And I have Tyler to guide me. Together, we can make this project a success."
Kate and Harry giggled as Maddie talked about Tyler guiding her but she paid no attention to them at all.
Old Lady Jackson nodded, a small smile on her face. "Very well, Maddie. You'll lead the project. But be warned: the buck stops with you. If it fails, you'll be held accountable."
Harry scoffed, "Maddie leading the project? She's not even part of the managerial team! This is a joke, right?"
Tyler chuckled, "Oh, Harry, you're so predictable. If you can't handle the heat, then chicken out and let us breathe in peace."
"Don't make me a laughing stick Tyler because me and you know that Madison does not have the capacity to pull this deal through" Harry seethed with anger.
"And you do?" Tyler said still teasing Harry.
The room erupted into laughter again, with Harry's face turning red with anger. Maddie couldn't help but giggle at her husband's teasing.
"But let me make a deal with you so that it won't look like am underrating you or something.If Maddie can't pull this deal i would knot tow and call you my lord and master and also apologize for underrating you"
This statement by Tyler made Harry smile as he was someone with a proud ego
"But on the other hand,if Maddie can pull this deal you would knot tow and call me your lord and master and also apologize for underrating Madison"
The whole room fell into silence as they did not expect Tyler to be this bold to make such a daring deal with Harry as to them there was no way Tyler could win against Harry.Even Madison began to silently tug at Tyler's shirt as an indication for him not to make the bet with her cousin as even she too did not belive he could win the deal not because she doubted his abilities but because Harry was a cunning person who could turn the tables to his favour just to win, but Tyler just turned towards her and gave her a reassuring smile which indicated that he knew what he was doing.
"Deal" Harry foolishly said to Tyler agreeing to the deal proposal made by Tyler because to him he thought he hsd everything under his control not knowing he was walking into the trap being set for him by Tyler.
"Okay but don't turn into a cry baby if you lose in this bet" Tyler teased once more sending everyone into another round of laughter.
As the laughter died down, Maddie observed Tyler with a newfound appreciation. She had noticed a change in him since they got married. He had become bolder, more confident, especially when dealing with her family members. He wasn't the same timid man she had met a few years ago.
Tyler caught her gaze and winked, as if knowing what she was thinking. Maddie's heart swelled with pride and love for her husband.
Old Lady Jackson cleared her throat, "Enough of all these bickering. Maddie will lead the project and Harry, if you have any issues, you can discuss them with Maddie privately."
Harry huffed, crossing his arms, but said nothing more. The meeting continued, with Maddie outlining her vision for the project, and Tyler offering his support and expertise.
After about two hours the meeting ended and everyone went to their respective homes.
Maddie woke up early, feeling determined to secure the deal with Ace Cooperation. She quietly got out of bed, trying not to disturb Tyler, who seemed to be sleeping soundly. She made breakfast for the family, then got ready for the day, looking professional and confident.
As soon as she left the house, Tyler sprang out of bed, pretending he had just woken up. He quickly went to the bathroom, locked the door, and pulled out his phone. He dialed a number, and a cheerful voice answered.
"Good morning, Young Master! How can I assist you today?"
"Good morning, Daisy. I need your help with something. My wife, Madison Wales, is on her way to Ace Cooperation to negotiate a deal. I want you to make sure she gets the project between us and the company that's to handle the decorations of our six star hotel"
"Yes, Young Master! I'll make sure everything goes smoothly. What specific instructions do you have for me?"
"I want you to personally attend to my wife, make her feel comfortable and confident. Use your charm and authority to win over the Ace Cooperation team. I want them to believe that my wife is the only one who can lead this project to success."
"Understood, Young Master and what about the terms of the deal? Should I make any adjustments?"
"Yes, make sure the terms are favorable to our company. But also, make sure Maddie feels like she's getting a good deal. I want her to come out of this feeling proud and accomplished."
"I'll take care of everything, Young Master consider it done."
Tyler smiled, feeling confident that Daisy would deliver. "Thanks, Daisy. I owe you one."
As he hung up the phone, Tyler felt a sense of pride and love for his wife. He knew that with Daisy's help, Maddie would succeed, and their future together would be brighter than ever.
Meanwhile Madison walked into the lobby of Ace Cooperation, looking professional in her modest three-piece black suit. However, the receptionist, who had just replaced the one who insulted Tyler on his first day as CEO, looked her up and down with disdain.
"Can I help you?" the receptionist asked, her tone dripping with condescension.
"I'm here to see the manager in charge of the Ace Cooperation project," Maddie replied confidently.
The receptionist snorted. "You? Look at the way you're dressed. You can't be serious. This is a multi-million dollar company, not some street market. Leave now before I call in the security."
Maddie's face flushed with anger, but before she could respond, Daisy appeared, her expression stern.
"What's going on here?" Daisy demanded, her eyes narrowing at the receptionist.
Maddie explained the situation, and Daisy's expression turned icy. "I apologize for the disrespect, Mrs. Wales. Please, follow me."
Daisy turned to the receptionist her eyes icy cold and which made the receptionist felt shivers down her spine.
"And as for you, your services are no longer needed here. You're fired, effective immediately.Let me not return down here and still meet you here if not....." she said.
The receptionist's eyes widened in shock as Daisy escorted Maddie through the elevators and into her office, closing the door behind them.
"I'm so sorry about that, Mrs. Wales. Please, make yourself comfortable. I'll get the manager in charge of the project to meet with you shortly."
Maddie smiled, grateful for Daisy's intervention. "Thank you, miss Daisy. I appreciate your help."
Daisy smiled back. "Of course, Mrs. Wales. I'm here to assist you in any way I can."
She then picked up her telephone and called the project manager, asking him to come immediately to her office.
As they waited for the project manager to arrive, Daisy offered Maddie a warm smile. "Can I get you a cup of coffee or water, Mrs. Wales?"
Maddie was taken aback by the sudden change in treatment. "Uh, yes, please. Coffee would be great, thank you."
Daisy nodded and pressed a button on her phone. "I'll have someone bring it in."
A few minutes later, a young woman arrived with a tray carrying two cups of coffee and a plate of pastries. Daisy took one of the cups and handed the other to Madison.
"Thank you," Maddie said, feeling a bit more at ease.
Just then, the phone on Daisy's desk buzzed. She answered it, listened for a moment, and then said, "Send him in."
The door to Daisy's office opened, and a tall, middle-aged man with a kind face and a firm handshake walked in. "Ah, Mrs. Wales, this is Mr. Thomas the project manager for Ace Cooperation."
Maddie stood up, and Mr. Thomas extended his hand. "Nice to meet you, Mrs. Wales. Please, call me Michael."
The next four hours were a blur of discussions, presentations, and negotiations. Maddie was impressed by Michael's knowledge of the project and his willingness to listen to her ideas.
As they broke for lunch, Daisy excused herself, leaving Maddie and Michael alone in the office.
"I must say, Mrs. Wales, I'm impressed by your grasp of the project," Michael said, as they sat down at the conference table. "We didn't expect someone from the Jackson Group to be so... prepared."
Maddie smiled, feeling a sense of pride. "We may not have the resources of Ace Cooperation, but we have something you don't - passion and determination."
Michael nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "I think we can work together, Mrs. Wales. Let's talk numbers."
The negotiations were intense, but Maddie held her ground, refusing to back down on key points. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, they reached an agreement.
"Ace Cooperation will take 55% of the profits, and the Jackson Group will take 45%," Michael said, extending his hand.
Maddie shook it, feeling a sense of triumph. "Deal."
As they left Daisy's office, Maddie turned to her and smiled. "Thank you for your help, miss Daisy. I couldn't have done it without you."
Daisy smiled back, her eyes shining with warmth. "You're welcome, Mrs. Wales. I'm just glad I could help."
Daisy then escorted Madison done the elevator to the reception area.
A new receptionist had replaced the one who treated Madison rudely in the morning to the amazement of Madison.
"Till we meet again Mrs Wales" Daisy said extending her hand for a handshake.
Maddie then shook hands with her and walked out of the Ace Cooperation building, feeling like she was on cloud nine. She had done it! She had secured the deal! She couldn't wait to share the news with Tyler.
She rushed home, her heart racing with excitement. But as she opened the door, she was met with a surprise. Her mom, Mrs. Jackson, was sitting in the living room, looking worried.
"Hey, mom where's Tyler?" Maddie asked, looking around the room.
Mrs. Jackson sighed. "He left a while ago, dear. I don't know where he went. He said something about needing some fresh air."
Maddie's face fell. She had wanted to break the news to Tyler first, but now he was nowhere to be found. She felt a pang of disappointment, but then her excitement took over.
"Mom, I have some amazing news!" Maddie exclaimed, hardly able to contain herself.
Mrs. Jackson's expression changed from worry to curiosity. "What is it, dear?"
Maddie took a deep breath. "I got the deal with Ace Cooperation! We're going to be working together on the project!"
Mrs. Jackson's face lit up with a smile. "Oh, Maddie! That's incredible! Congratulations, sweetie!"
Maddie grinned, feeling proud of herself. "Thanks, Mom. I couldn't have done it without Tyler's help, though."
Mrs. Jackson nodded."I'm sure he'll be thrilled when he finds out. Let's celebrate with a bottle of wine!"
Maddie laughed. "Okay, but we have to make do with the cheap stuff for now."
Mrs. Jackson chuckled. "That's okay, dear. We'll splurge when we can afford it."
They opened a bottle of inexpensive wine and sat down at the kitchen table, toasting to Maddie's success. As they sipped their wine, Maddie couldn't help but feel grateful for her mom's support and love. She knew that Tyler would be proud of her too, when he found out.
Meanwhile at the CEO's Tyler stood in the empty office space, envisioning the new design he had in mind. He had been there since morning, after having a quick breakfast at home. He wanted to make sure everything was perfect for his new office.
Just then, Daisy Young walked in, a bright smile on her face. "Young master, congratulations everything is in order!"
Tyler raised an eyebrow. "What are you talking about?"
"The proposal between Ace Cooperation and your wife, Maddie, was a huge success!" Daisy exclaimed. "She nailed it! I've never seen anyone negotiate like that before."
Tyler's face lit up with pride. "That's amazing! I knew she could do it."
Daisy nodded. "I have to say, I was impressed. And I'm glad I could help in my own small way."
Tyler chuckled. "You were more than helpful, Daisy. You were instrumental in making this happen."
Daisy blushed. "Thanks, Tyler. I'm just glad everything worked out."
Tyler's eyes narrowed. "So, what's the next step?"
Daisy pulled out a folder from her bag. "Well, we need to finalize the details, but essentially, we're looking at a 55-45 split in favor of Ace Cooperation. Your wife drove a hard bargain, but it's a fair deal."
Tyler nodded, impressed. "I knew she'd get it done. Let's get to work on the details, then."
As they sat down to discuss the final points of the deal, Tyler couldn't help but feel proud of Maddie. She had done it! She had secured the deal, and their future was looking brighter than ever.
Tyler walked into the house, exhausted from his day at Ace Cooperation. Maddie ran to him, a huge smile on her face.
"Hey, sweetheart! I have the best news ever!" she exclaimed as she gives him a peck on his check.
Tyler's face lit up. "What is it, my love?"
Maddie took a deep breath. "I got the deal with Ace Cooperation! We're going to be working together on the project!"
Tyler swept her into a hug, twirling her around. "That's amazing, my darling! I knew you could do it! You're the best thing that's ever happened to me."
After celebrating for a bit, Maddie remembered her plan to gather the family. "Tyler, I need to call Grandma and ask her to come over for a meeting with everyone. Can you get your bike ready, sweetie?"
Tyler nodded. "Already on it, my love. I'll meet you outside."
Maddie called her grandma, who agreed to come over immediately. They headed to the manor, where the family was already gathering in the meeting room.
As they entered, Harry raised an eyebrow. "Well, well, well. Look who's here. Did you fail to get the contract, Maddie?"
Some of the family members snickered, but Tyler shot them down. "Shut up, Harry. Let my wife speak. She's got amazing news to share."
Maddie took a deep breath. "I called this meeting to share some incredible news. I got the deal with Ace Cooperation, and we're going to make it a huge success!"
The room fell silent, with some family members looking surprised, others skeptical.
"Way to go, my love!" Tyler exclaimed, beaming with pride. "You're the best!"
Grandma Jackson smiled warmly. "I'm so proud of you, dearie. You deserve all the happiness in the world."
Uncle James frowned. "I don't know, Maddie. This sounds too good to be true. What's the catch?"
Maddie explained the details, and as she spoke, the room filled with a mix of congratulations, questions, and concerns.
But Tyler just smiled, proud of his wife. "We make an amazing team, my love. We're going to conquer the world together!"
Harry scoffed. "I don't believe it. You're just making this up, Maddie."
Tyler sighed. "Harry, come on. Why would we lie about this?"
But Harry wouldn't let up. "I don't know, maybe to make yourselves look good in front of the family."
Tyler pulled out his phone. "Fine, I'll prove it to you." He sent a quick Whatsapp message to Daisy which read: Hey, can you put the news about the business deal between Ace Cooperation and the Jackson Group on the company's official platform? My family needs to see it."
Just then, a manager burst into the meeting room. "Wait, wait, wait! I just saw the news on my phone! It's true! Ace Cooperation has partnered with the Jackson Group!"
He quickly turned on the projector and pulled up the news article. The room fell silent as they read the headlines: "Ace Cooperation announces collaboration with Jackson Group on Major Partnership buisness deal".
The room erupted into congratulations and cheers, with everyone patting Maddie on the back and shaking Tyler's hand, except Harry. He looked angry and defeated, unable to believe that Maddie had pulled off the deal so quickly.
"Congratulations, Maddie," Grandma Jackson said, beaming with pride. "You've made us all proud."
Uncle James nodded. "Yes, well done, Maddie. You've really outdone yourself this time."
But Harry just scowled and muttered under his breath. "This can't be happening..."
"What can't be happening, you find this news hard to believe or do you want to say that the news from Ace co-operation is fake even after seeing what was uploaded on their official website" Tyler teased Harry.
Old Lady Jackson stood up, a warm smile on her face. "My dear family, I have an announcement to make. As of today, I am stepping down as Managing Director of the Jackson Group."
The room fell silent, with everyone looking at each other in shock.
"And I am proud to announce that Maddie will be taking over as the new Managing Director," Old Lady Jackson continued. "She has proven herself to be a capable and talented leader, and I have no doubt she will take the company to even greater heights."
Maddie's eyes widened in surprise, and she looked at Tyler with tears of joy in her eyes. He smiled back at her, his eyes shining with pride.
Everyone began to give Maddie their congratulations on her new position in the company except from Harry who was jealous because he felt he was the one who should hold that postion and not Madison.
Just then, Tyler spoke up. "And now, Harry, it's time to fulfill your end of the bargain. You made a bet with mw and now you lost, so according to the bargain you have to knock your head on the ground and say 'my lord' to me."
Harry's face turned red with anger and embarrassment. "No way. I'm not doing that."
But Old Lady Jackson's announcement had changed the dynamics in the room. The family was now looking at Maddie with newfound respect, and Harry's refusal to acknowledge Tyler's win seemed petty in comparison.
"Come on, Harry," Maddie said, her voice firm but gentle. "Be a good sport. You lost fair and square."
But Harry refused to back down. "I'll never do it. I'd rather die than humiliate myself like that."
Tyler shrugged. "Fine, Harry. But you're missing out on a chance to show some humility and class. I'm still waiting for you to fulfill your end of the bargain."
The tension in the room was palpable, with everyone waiting to see what Harry would do next. But Harry just stormed out of the room, leaving the rest of the family to wonder what would happen next.
"Babe can you pls drop this for my sake"Madison begged Tyler on behalf of Harry.
"It's okay, Harry has already embarrassed himself and showing that he's a weakling"Tyler teased sending the whole room bursting with laughter.
Old Lady Jackson trying to be fair called out to Harry across the room. "Harry, come back here and fulfill the bet you made with Tyler. If you don't, you're no longer part of this family."
Harry's face twisted in anger, but he knew he had no choice. He trudged back into the room, his eyes fixed on the floor.
"Get on with it, Harry," Tyler said, his voice firm.
Harry slowly got down on his hands and knees, his head bowed. "My lord," he muttered, his voice barely audible.
Tyler nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "Again, Harry. And this time, mean it."
Harry repeated the phrase, his voice growing louder and more sincere with each repetition. Tyler watched him, his eyes gleaming with triumph.
After thirty minutes, Tyler finally nodded. "Enough, Harry. You can get up now."
Harry slowly stood up, his face red with humiliation.
Old Lady Jackson spoke up, her voice firm. "The handover ceremony of Madison's inauguration as the Managing Director of the Jackson group will take place on Wednesday at 10pm at St Michael's Hotel. I expect everyone to be there."
The family members nodded, still looking at Maddie with newfound respect.
"Dismissed," Old Lady Jackson said, waving her hand.
The family members began to file out of the room, chattering quietly among themselves.
Tyler and Maddie left the manor, proud of their achievements. They walked hand in hand, their hearts full of joy and triumph.
"We did it, Maddie," Tyler said, squeezing her hand.
Maddie smiled, her eyes shining with tears. "We sure did, Tyler. We make a great team."
Tyler grinned, pulling her close. "We certainly do, my love. We certainly do."
Maddie turned to Tyler with a mischievous grin. "I want to give you a treat, my lord."
Tyler chuckled. "Oh, no, no, no. I don't need a treat. I'm just happy we won the deal."
But Maddie insisted. "Come on, Tyler. Just a little treat. Please?"
Tyler couldn't resist her persistence. "Fine, what did you have in mind?"
Maddie's face lit up. "Let's go to Marcos Pizza! I've been craving for their pizza all day."
Tyler laughed. "You know I can't resist your cravings. Let's go."
They arrived at Marcos Pizza, a cozy downtown shop with the best pizza in town. They ordered their favorite toppings and sat down at a quiet table by the window.
As they ate, they couldn't stop teasing each other romantically. Tyler kept stealing Maddie's slices, and she would giggle and try to get them back.
After finishing their pizza, they ordered ice cream and took a stroll around the area, enjoying the warm evening air. They walked hand in hand, playfully nudging each other and whispering sweet nothings.
An hour later, they returned to Marcos Pizza, picked up their bike, and drove home, feeling happy and content.
As they pulled into their driveway, Maddie turned to Tyler with a smile. "Ready to share the good news with our parents?"
Tyler grinned. "Born ready, my love. Let's go make their day."
As they walked into the house, Maddie's parents were beaming with joy. "What's all the excitement about?" her mother asked, barely containing her enthusiasm.
Maddie grinned mischievously. "We've got some amazing news to share!"
Tyler took over, telling them about the deal and Maddie's new role as Managing Director. The room erupted into cheers and hugs, with Maddie's parents showering them with congratulations.
Maddie's mother, who had always had a love-hate relationship with Tyler, was unusually warm towards him. "I can finally hold my head up high among my peers," she said, her eyes shining with pride. "Thank you, Tyler, for making this happen."
Maddie's father, a stoic man, cracked a rare smile. "I'm proud of you, dear," he said to his wife. "You've raised an incredible daughter."
The rest of the evening was a blur of celebration, with laughter, tears, and plenty of food. It was a moment of pure joy, one that they would cherish forever.
As they sat around the dinner table, basking in the glow of their success, Tyler reached out and took Maddie's hand. "We make a pretty good team, don't we?" he whispered.
Maddie smiled, her eyes sparkling. "The best team ever."
Menawhile at the wantons family manor, Mr. Solomon Wanton's face turned beet red with rage as he stared at the news on his phone. "Fred! Get in here now!" he bellowed.
Fred Wanton, his son, rushed into the room, looking nervous. "Yes, Father?"
Mr. Wanton thrust his phone in Fred's face. "See this? This is what you've done! If you hadn't offended that big shot from Ace Cooperation, we would be the ones getting this deal, not the Jackson Group!"
Fred took a step back, fear creeping into his eyes. "I-I didn't mean to, Father..."
But Mr. Wanton was beyond reason. He lashed out, his hand connecting with Fred's face in a loud smack. "You're a fool, Fred! A complete fool!"
Fred stumbled back, clutching his cheek. "Father, please..."
But Mr. Wanton just kept hitting him, his anger and frustration boiling over. "You've ruined everything! We could have been the ones on top, but no, you had to go and mess it up!"
The sound of Fred's cries and Mr. Wanton's rage echoed through the Manor, a stark contrast to the celebration happening at the Jackson's house.
Mr Wanton's anger finally subsided, leaving Fred cowering on the floor, his face bruised and swollen. Mrs. Wanton, who had been watching the scene unfold, rushed to her son's side, helping him up.
"Solomon, that's enough!" she exclaimed, her voice firm but trembling. "You'll kill him one of these days!"
Mr. Wanton turned away, his chest heaving. "Get him out of my sight," he growled.
Mrs. Wanton led Fred out of the room, casting a worried glance over her shoulder. As they reached Fred's bedroom, she locked the door behind them and turned to her son.
"Fred, what happened? What did you do to anger your father so?"
Fred winced, touching his sore face. "I...I don't know, Mother. I just made a mistake, that's all."
Mrs. Wanton sighed, shaking her head. "You need to be more careful, Fred. Your father's temper is getting worse by the day."
Just then, a knock at the door interrupted them. It was Emma, the Wanton's loyal housekeeper.
"Mrs. Wanton, I have some news," Emma said, her voice low. "I overheard Mr. Wanton on the phone earlier. He's planning something, and it doesn't sound good."
Mrs. Wanton's eyes narrowed. "What kind of something?"
Emma hesitated. "I'm not entirely sure, but it involves the Jacksons. And it doesn't sound good at all"